The season finale showcased the top three finalist and song choice and performance was critical. During the competition many believed that Josh was the clear winner, but Melanie did step up her game when it counted. However, some may question if Simon being in control of the show helped her secure the $5 million dollar prize. It’s obvious that having Simon as her mentor certainly helped. And on top of that, the fact that he almost left her completely out of the competition, added to his need to make sure she finished strong.

Teaming Melanie up withR. Kelly in the finals, and giving her the best songs of all the contestants, absolutely sealed the deal. But would he go so far make sure that Chris and Josh had a worse performance? Not sure, but they certainly did not have the proper team during the finals…Avril Levine and Alantis Morissette just did not fit either of them. It would not surprise me if their mentors L.A. Reid and Nicole had nothing to do with this selection.

Everyone also knows Simon hates to lose and will likely do anything to win. Money is no object for him these days, so all he has left is his ego and power. It was clear that he made sure Melanie was the last singer on the final night of the competition and we know this is the best spot. The one who ends the show is the most remembered by the viewers. This is not to say Melanie was not an incredible singer, but it does beg the question…would she still have won if he was not her mentor?

What do you think? Was this fair and square or did she have the upper hand?

During the press conference they passed out three envelopes with a number from 1 to 3. The contestant was to pick an envelope and the number inside was to be their position in the finale. Melanie picked 1 – which meant she was to go first. However, when she opened it – Simon said she now had choice of position since she picked number 1. Just another way he changed the rules to favor Melanie.